(Lincoln Center, 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023) Julie Taymor’s spellbinding production of Mozart’s operatic fairy tale returns as part of the Met’s new tradition of holiday presentations. This abridged English-language production, with four matinee performances, is an unforgettable way for families to celebrate the season. Event Website

(Coney Island Boardwalk, Surf Ave at 19th St, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY 11229) (12pm) Join the Coney Island Polar Club for the traditional New Year's Day celebration. Make a donation to Camp Sunshine and receive a free breakfast and all-day admission to the New York Aquarium. Special this year: Polar Bear Club member Strongman Steve Ekstance, who recently pulled a dumptruck by his teeth and dead lifted 1000 lbs. in support of Camp Sunshine, will be appearing on the boardwalk at noon performing similar feats. (Free) (718-356-7741) Event Website

(Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave, New York, NY 10003) (8pm) After the last two years' sold-out runs, Nutcracker: Rated R returns for its third season, cracking open the heart of the classic children’s ballet to uncover drugs, sex, family secrets and all the other delights that make the Holidays so special. Little ballerina Clara is now a rebellious teen. Her disdain for her bourgeois family is challenged when her uncle Drosselmeyer takes her back in time to early 1980s New York. There, she discovers the seamy underground club scene and her family's untold history. Echoes of the original Tchaikovsky score mix with contemporary, unexpected beats to complement a range of movement from ballet to breakdance and burlesque. ($20/$15 Student/Senior; Sat 3pm by donation) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM - 10:00 PM) At this Speed-Dating event, meet lots of guys ages 30s & 40s one-on-one for a series of 3-minute dates. Tell us which men you want a second date with, and minutes later you find out your matches. This is a great opportunity to meet guys for time-efficient face-to-face contact. It’s a lot of fun and could lead to meeting someone special! ($20) (212-971-1084) [email protected] Event Website

(B. B. King Blues Club and Grill, 237 West 42nd St, New York, NY 10036) The Harlem Gospel Choir is the most famous gospel choir in America and a pre-eminent gospel choir world-wide. It travels the globe, sharing its joy of faith through its music, & raising funds for children's charities. The Choir was founded in 1986 by Allen Bailey, who got the idea for the Choir while attending a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Cotton Club in Harlem. Event Website

(Chelsea Piers, Pier 60, New York, NY 10011) Event Website

(Joyce Theater, 175 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011) (Varies see website) The World Premiere of an all-new, as-yet-untitled collaboration with the lead vocalists of East Village Opera Company (EVOC), featuring the music of the acclaimed rock opera band. Program A premieres the new evening-length work with EVOC’s two lead vocalists live onstage with Parsons Dance. Program B will feature Parsons Dance favorites, including Caught and Nascimento. (Starting $19) Event Website

(Birdland, 315 West 44th St, New York, NY 10036) (8:30pm & 11pm) David Berger and his sixteen-piece big band the Sultans of Swing swing out in a celebration of all things Ellington! Birdland dances the night away to authentic, swinging arrangements by Ellington, Count Basie, and other big band icons in a nostalgic and fun-filled evening. ($25 - 30) Event Website

(Therapy, 348 West 52nd St, New York, NY 10019) (7pm) SKI BUMS hosts social events and group trips for over 500 LGBT skiers and snowboarders. You're invited to "chill out" with other cool snowboarding & skiing women and sign up for "Girl Powder," the SKI BUMS all-girl daytrip to Belleayre Mountain, on Saturday, January 24. Event Website

(TheTimesCenter, 242 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036) (6pm) GLENN CLOSE, TATE DONOVAN, ROSE BYRNE, TODD A. KESSLER, GLENN KESSLER, DANIEL ZELMAN. The Emmy-winning star with co-stars and the creators-writers-producers of the FX series, "Damages," the legal thriller set in New York , talk about driven characters and high-stakes battles. Interviewed by Bill Carter. ($30) Event Website

(TheTimesCenter, 242 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036) Join New York Times journalists and some of today’s most celebrated talent and thinkers from the worlds of art, television, music, literature, media, dance and politics -- from Glenn Close to Keith Olbermann, Vampire Weekend to the ladies of “The View,” Salman Rushdie to Lewis Black and much more. Event Website

(The Mart, 7 West 34th St, New York, NY 10001) An art-filled evening with an open bar, savory hors d'oeuvres, and the opportunity to make purchases before the fair opens to the public. Event Website

(7 W New York, 7 West 34th St off 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001) Off the radar art and culture. Benefit Preview Event takes places on January 8, 6 - 9pm at American Folk Art Museum. www.folkartmuseum.org Event Website

(Metro Pictures, 519 West 24th St, New York, NY 10011) (Jan 9: 6 - 8pm; Jan 10: 11am - 7pm) Postcards From the Edge is a Visual AIDS benefit show and sale of original, postcard-sized works on paper by established and emerging artists. All works are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The works are signed on the back and exhibited so the artists' signatures cannot be seen. While buyers receive a list of all participating artists, they don't know who created which piece until purchased. Preview Party on Friday, January 9, 6 - 8pm. All proceeds support the work of Visual AIDS, utilizing contemporary art for AIDS advocacy and historicizing the work of HIV-positive artists while offering career support. ($5 suggested admission) Event Website

(TheTimesCenter, 242 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036) (6pm) The dancers and artistic directors of the innovative dance troupe reveal a behind-the-scenes look at their newest collaboration, "Darkness and Light," with acclaimed puppeteer Basil Twist, and discuss the steps the company has taken to become a pioneering 21st century American arts organization. Interviewed by Robin Pogrebin. ($30) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM) It’s speed-dating with an ingenious twist: answer four questions about your interests, values, and lifestyle, and get assigned to four different groups of men who gave answers similar to yours. Also meet guys one-on-one in a free mingling period. Boyfriend Material is a fun, revolutionary way to meet men you are compatible with. ($20) (212-971-1084) [email protected] Event Website

(Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts, Brooklyn College, 2900 Campus Road, Brooklyn, NY 11210) (8PM) Expressions Dance Company is known across the globe for its highly athletic and theatrical brand of dance. This Australian company performs the New York City premiere of Score!, a new multimedia dance-theater piece inspired by Michel Fokine's ballet Petrushka and set in the insanely competitive world of reality TV. Packed with strikingly physicality, Score! incorporates live footage, video projections, and spoken word into this gripping tale of two contestants battling for the ultimate prize. ($25) (718) 951-4600) Event Website

(Zipper Factory, 336 West 37th St, New York, NY 10018) (Jan 10 @ 8pm; Jan 11 @ 7pm) ¡Gaytino!, written and performed by Dan Guerrero, will have its Off-Broadway premiere at The Zipper, with Obie winner Diane Rodriguez directing what the Washington Post called “a disarming twist on the triumph-of-the-human-spirit theme.” From Mariachi to Merman, Sondheim to César Chávez: this remarkable life journey takes you from East LA in the 1950s to New York’s Great White Way in the ’60s & ’70s, and back to Hollywood. A father/son relationship and a treasured boyhood friendship drive this 75-minute, autobiographical solo play with music through decades of Chicano history and the gay experience from a unique and personal perspective. Touching, hilarious and absolutely one-of-a-kind, Dan Guerrero brings his two disparate worlds together in one riveting show. ($25) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (9pm) DJ Lugnut (aka Alfredo of Big Lug, the famed East Village bear party) returns from Chicago for another 80s mix of disco, new wave and funk. Expect to hear all your favs from Janet & Donna, to Prince & Michael, to Kylie & Chryssie, and of course Madonna. And don’t forget your headbands and legwarmers! ($10 door; $8 online) Event Website

(TBD) Gotham promotes the development and enjoyment of the sport Volleyball in the LGBT community. Event Website

(Various Parks, 5 boroughs) Watch your tree go into the chipper and become environment-friendly mulch. Then take some home for your own yard or garden. ((718) 965-8960) Event Website

(92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128) Martin Charnin (Annie) is the last lyricist to have worked with Richard Rodgers on Broadway. In a personal retrospective, Charnin traces the career of this musical legend through Rodgers' collaborations with five remarkable lyricists. Event Website

(Gotham Comedy Club, 208 West 23rd St (btwn 7 & 8th Aves), New York, NY 10011, 212.367.9000, Venue Website) (6 PM for show Mixer starting at 4:15 on) Combining award winning a cappella singing, sharp satire and over-the-top drag, THE KINSEY SICKS are one of the hottest acts around. The New York Times praises their "voices sweet as birdsong" and Billboard calls them "one act that should not be missed." 20% discount on cover if mention code OPlaughs. Mixer starting at 4:15 on THE KINSEY SICKS recently completed a critically acclaimed extended engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton. Their Off-Broadway show, "DRAGAPELLA," at New York's legendary Studio 54, was nominated for Best Musical and Best Lyrics. THE KINSEY SICKS are frequent headliners at the Montreal Comedy Festival. They have released 5 hilarious CDs. ($30 + 2 drink minimum) (212.367.9000) [email protected] Event Website

(Santo’s Party House, 100 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013) (8pm) DJs Billy Carroll, Quentin Harris, Hex Hector, Tony Humphries, Randy Bettis, Gomi, Reed McGowan and Bryan Raughton. And Performance by Robert Owens, Barbara Tucker and Jason Walker. Door proceeds to benefit GMHC, LIFEbeat and AREA Event Website

(Zipper Factory, 336 West 37th St, New York, NY 10018) (9:30pm) The inimitable Justin Bond brings his original show RITES!, the “soundtrack to the trans-neo-pagan revolution” to The Zipper. Joining the Tony-nominated Bond is his critically acclaimed musical director, Our Lady J. ($25) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) Refereed freestyle matches. Event Website

(TheTimesCenter, 242 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036) (8pm) The singer, songwriter, poet, artist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer talks about her recent world tour with her band and what it’s like to be back in New York writing and making music. Interviewed by Jon Pareles. ($30)

(Cowgirl, 519 Hudson, Corner of W. 10 St, New York, NY 10014) (2pm) Enjoy a delicious brunch with a delightful group of bi & bi-friendly women. Make new friends! We welcome women from all cultures and diversities. We provide a non-judgmental safe space for women to exchange, share, eat and discuss interesting, exciting, as well as thought-provoking topics that will keep you in the know, on the go, and just so intrigued. RSVP to 917-583-1797 Please RSVP to 917-583-1797 or join our email list to stay up to date http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BiWomenofAllColors/ (Buy your own meal) (917-583-1797) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6PM-9PM) Where are you going to meet someone to share your summer -- and maybe even your life? Smart New Yorkers know the answer: Center Share-A-Thon, presented by Out Professionals. Offering a summer share? Seeking a share? Meet your match, find your place in the sun, and enjoy beverage bargains. ($15 Share Seeker, $40 Share Offeror) (212.620.7310) [email protected] Event Website

(Nokia Theatre Times Square, 1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10019) Spend "a weekend in the country" with a once-in-a-lifetime cast performing Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's enchanting, Tony Award-winning musical. Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7pm) The Transgender Committee of the LGBT Bar Association of Greater New York (LeGaL) is hosting a winter networking event to connect law students with lawyers doing transgender legal advocacy work in New York City. Organizations tabling include the West Village Trans-Legal Clinic, Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund, Urban Justice Center's Peter Cicchino Youth Project, Sylvia Rivera Law Project, Housing Works, New York Legal Assistance Group, and Queers for Economic Justice. The event is open to LeGaL members and potential members. Light refreshments, beer, and wine will be served. (Free) [email protected] Event Website

(Metropolitan Playhouse, 220 East 4th Street, New York, NY 10009) (7 PM Jan. 13 & 17) Part of the theatre's annual Author-Fest, "Melvillapalooza" focusing on the life and works of Herman Melville. "Come on in, and pull yourself up a chair! Let the fun begin, it's time to let down your hair! Mr. Melville's so excited 'cause all his friends have been invited To go wacky, at Mr. Melville's Playhouse!" ($18) (212-995-8410) [email protected] Event Website

Performers include Murray Hill, Janeane Garofalo, Jasper James, Michelle Balan, and others. ($40 - $1,000) Event Website

(ihi (The Institute for Human Identity), 322 Eighth Avenue, Suite 802 at 26th Street, New York, NY 10001) (7 PM) All children are naturally curious and eventually want to know about "the birds and the bees." Unfortunately, LGBTQ parents tend not to be much more open about sex than their straight counterparts. This workshop will explore the types of questions that children often ask, and help address parental anxieties about answering them. (FREE) (212-243-2830) [email protected] Event Website

(Laurie Beechman Theatre/Westbank Café, 407 W. 42nd Street between 9th and 10th, Subway: ACE to 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036) (7PM) Helene Feldman returns to the cabaret stage with her intriguing new show “Constant Craving”. The show is a diverse blend of songs from popular music, jazz, blues, contemporary theatre and The Great American Song Book. ($15 cover + $15 food/drink min., $10 MAC/Hotline members) Event Website

(Peter Jay Sharp Theater, The Juilliard School, 155 West 65th Street, New York, NY 10023) (8 PM) Vocal and dance music by the 20th Century's greatest composers from Argentina, Brazil and Cuba, including: Jobim, Piazzolla, Villa-Lobos, Ginastera, etc. Fourth annual collaboration between New York Festival Of Song (NYFOS) and The Juilliard School Of Music, celebrating the creative energy and vocal talents of tomorrow's musical stars. (Free) (212-799-5000) [email protected] Event Website

(Time Warner Center, 60th & Broadway, New York, NY 10023) (8:30pm) One of our most talented authorities on the Great American Songbook takes a witty and sophisticated journey with David Hyde Pierce and Victoria Clark through the songs of one of the genre’s most influential contributors, Cole Porter. Event Website

(Time Warner Center, 60th & Broadway, New York, NY 10023) (8:30pm) On tour in support of her new album, “Sleepless Nights”, this Grand Ole Opry show-stopper. with a beautifully plaintive voice, delivers classic songs by country music legends. Event Website

(Pieces, 8 Christopher Street, New York, NY 10014) (8pm) Join us to celebrate the end of George W. Bush’s presidency! Start his final week in office with us if you loathe him as much as we do! The night will feature appearances by Chris Dilley and author Damon Jacobs (“Shouldless”) Prizes from Manhunt, Badpuppy, various companies, ID Lube and Dance 208 tickets and the usual “more”! Event Website

(GMHC, The Tisch Building, 119 West 24th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:30pm) A celebration of spoken word, song and dance in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday. The celebration is open to the general public. HIV testing and community information will be available. Light refreshments will be provided. If you would like perform a short poem, song or dance, please contact: Lemeeki Williams (212-367-1102; [email protected]) or Krishna Stone (212-367-1016; [email protected]). Hosted by GMHC's Barbershop, Institute for Gay Men's Health and the Women's Care, Prevention and Support Unit. (Free) Event Website

(Castillo Theatre, 543 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036) (Fri. & Sat. 7:30 pm, Sun. 2:00 pm) It's the end of the Korean War and three young GIs from New York City — one Latino, one Black and one Jewish — confront the harassment of the brass, the racism of the military and the brutality of the United States occupation of South Korea.mFeatures music by Fred Newman and Grammy-winning composer Annie Roboff that takes us on a journey through the "coming of age" of American popular music — blues, swing, doo-wop, rock and country. (Tickets $35; Students & seniors $10;) (212-941-1234) Event Website

(MCCNY, 446 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018) (7pm) Fasten your seatbelts! Sybil Bruncheon is NOT your average Church Lady! She's not only fund-raising, she's FUN-raising. Join Sybil, Fabio, and entourage as they present an amazing evening of entertainment, bingo and fabu prizes! SPACE IS LIMITED. Proceeds benefit Metropolitan Community Church's outreach programs, including Homeless Youth Services and the Sylvia Rivera Food Pantry. ($20) [email protected] Event Website

(Second Stage Theatre, 307 West 43 Street, New York, NY 10036) (7:00 PM) Don't miss the wicked new comedy BECKY SHAW. A married couple attempt to set up two romantically-challenged friends on a blind date. When the evening calculated to bring happiness takes a dark turn, crisis and comedy ensue. This hit play from this year's Humana Festival gets its NY premiere from the theatre that brought you The Little Dog Laughed and Some Men . ($35) (212 246 4422) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM) It’s speed-dating with an ingenious twist: answer four questions about your interests, values, and lifestyle, and get assigned to four different groups of women who gave answers similar to yours. Also meet one-on-one in a free mingling period. Compatibility Game is a fun, revolutionary way to meet women you are compatible with. ($20) (212-971-1084) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8PM) Run by lesbian comedian. Fun ice-breaker, then meet one on one & in groups with conversation topics, questions, & creative exercises. Find women you are most compatible with who share similar values, interests, dreams, etc. Free refreshments. Relaxed, no pressure. Guaranteed fun. You do not want to miss this exciting evening where lots of friendly, diverse, quality, down to earth lesbians are waiting to connect with you for friendship, dating, romance, etc. ($18 earlybird special $20 after) (212-989-8549) [email protected] Event Website

(Zipper Factory, 336 West 37th St, New York, NY 10018) (10:30 PM) There's a body in the library... and what a body! But which of the mysteriously sexy guests at Pinchbottom Manor is the killer? Quirky British detectives Nasty Canasta and Jonny Porkpie are searching for clues in every pair of panties, but they have their work cut out for them -- because in this mystery, every suspect is drop-dead gorgeous. Starring Nasty Canasta & Jonny Porkpie, with Anita Cookie, Clams Casino, Jo Boobs, Tigger!, Trixie Little & The Evil Hate Monkey, Naughtia Nice and Bastard Keith. ($20) [email protected] Event Website

(Showtime) (9pm) In this next and final (sniff, sniff) season, Bette and Alice get schooled on love, Shane meets her match, Jenny's life becomes wilder than fiction and while Tina searches for her place in the world, Kit and Max face some very tough choices. With all that's in store, one thing's for sure there's no stopping the women of L. Get ready for a season of shake ups, break ups, hang ups and hook ups, in the hottest show known to womankind. Guest stars Cybil Shepherd and Marlee Matlin. Event Website

(Opera, 268 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036) (3:30 PM) A much anticipated gathering of women of all ages, ethnicities, styles and backgrounds. Event Website

(NYC: Pacha, 618 West 46th St (6pm); Long Island: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave, Huntington, NY (11:30am) Long Island After party: DaNu, 368 New York Ave, Huntington NY (1:30pm)) Usher in the final drama-filled season of The L Word with hundreds of your fellow fans. To benefit HRC. Event Website

(Various locations 5 boroughs) More than 235 participating restaurants to choose from, including some of NYC's most time-honored eateries to buzz-worthy newcomers. Lunch and dinner offerings include three-course, prix-fixe meals for $24.07 and $35 respectively. Event Website

(5th Ave from 61st St to 86th St) (1pm) The Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade began in 1959 to honor war dead and took place in Harlem. It moved to 5th Aven in 1964, and was dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. after he was assassinated in 1968.

(The Players, 16 Gramercy Park S, New York, NY 10018) (7 PM) ONE: THE DARK LADY OF THE SONNETS, In which Will Shakespeare meets Elizabeth I on a moolit night ! Is she the fabled Dark Lady? TWO: SHAKES VERSUS SHAV, In which Shaw and Shakespeare (and several of their literary characters) duke it out ! Who wins ? And: CYMBELINE REFINISHED, In which Shaw sends up the endlessly confusing final Shakespearean act of CYMBELINE, bringing us a speedy and happilly larkishish finale! ($20) Event Website

(Christie's Education New York,, 11 West 42nd St, New York, NY 10036) This three-day course, presented by Christie's Education in collaboration with the American Folk Art Museum, offers a concise overview of traditional American folk art. Event Website

(Time Warner Center, 60th & Broadway, New York, NY 10023) (8:30pm) This iconic singer, with saxophonist Ernie Watts, ETHEL, and the Laurence Hobgood Trio, celebrates the partnership between saxophone giant John Coltrane and balladeer Johnny Hartman. Event Website

(Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th St, New York, NY 10011) A benefit for the American Folk Art Museum featuring the country's foremost Americana and folk art dealers, with a special preview on the 21st. Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6pm) Instead of just hearing pundits or bloggers rant about the state of the economy, here's your chance to get opinions and insights from Wall Street experts about what's in store for the markets. Scheduled panelists include Kathleen Stephansen, former Head of Global Economics at Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, and R. Martin Chavez (Marty), a Partner at Goldman Sachs. Moderating will be former OP President Michael L. Tracy, VP-Investments at UBS Financial Services Inc. With a stock market crash not seen since the Great Depression, a whole new landscape in financial services, and unprecedented federal government intervention, you'll want to attend this timely, exclusive roundtable of economists and strategists. Networking mixer, 6pm; open bar and hors d'oeuvres. Roundtable and audience Q&A, 7:30pm. (Nonmembers, $10. OP Members, just $5.) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (7pm (Jan 24: 2 & 7pm)) LOADED, the provocative new play by Elliot Ramon Potts, directed by Hector Lugo is an exhilarating dark comedy which dares to ask the question, “What happens when f**k buddies start talking?” LOADED breathtakingly unfolds in real time as the characters -- a jaded, 47-year-old man who is used to having the upper hand in intimate encounters and a hopeful, quick-witted 24-year-old -- reveal themselves in a sexually charged tête-à-tête. The sex may have been hot, but the conversation…incendiary. ($20+) Event Website

(La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club, 74A East 4th St, New York, NY 10003) (Thursdays - Sundays 10pm) La MaMa will remount the phenomena of last season's Off-off Broadway "Room for Cream," a staged soap opera of lesbian life in the Berkshires. The production was a breakthrough event, of sorts, for The Dyke Division of Theatre of the Two-Headed Calf and its director, Brooke O'Harra. ($15; Season Pass $70) (212-475-7710) [email protected] Event Website

(Design Within Reach, 408 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10014) (7-9pm) Come fine out how to be a host or a sponsor of the 2009 New York Leadership Awards, a fundraiser for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (Free) (646.358.1467) [email protected] Event Website

(Joyce Theater, 175 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011) Intensely energetic, this virtuosic company returns to The Joyce with dance The New York Times calls "captivating…both surprising and urgent." Event Website

(JCC of Manhattan; photo ID required, Amsterdam Avenue at 76th Street, New York, NY 10023) (7PM) Join Joan Nestle, a self-identified "femme lesbian" who writes explicitly about love, lust, play, creativity, illness and social concerns. As our tour guide and special guest for the evening, Joan will share stories and tales from her book and her travels. Escape from your crazy week to a female haven and growing community. Mingle, schmooze or come for the delicious meal. Bring your girlfriend, friends, or come alone. I ($30-35) (646-505-5708.) Event Website

(Comix, 353 west 14th street, New York, NY 10014) (7:00 PM) Dykes on Mics is made up of four hilarious New York based comedians: Leah Dubie (HERE TV), Jackie Monahan (LOGO), Amy Beckerman (MTV) and Gloria Bigelow (LOGO). The ladies have performed at Provincetown’s Women’s Week, sold out shows across the Northeast and their NYC show has been billed as a “best bet” in Time Out New York. Recently, the group was featured in the LOGO documentary “Out In the City.” Come join them for a blend of stand-up, improv and controlled nonsense. Its estrogen fueled hilarity without the cramps and bloating! (free) (617-257-4786) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:30pm) Lesbian Cinema Arts presents Ashley and Kisha: Finding The Right Fit (Real People, Real Life, Real Sex Series). The first time Ashley saw Kisha's bare bottom, Ashley was making out with an ex-girlfriend. So begins the story of two women who seemed destined not to be together. Ashley was a lady-killer and proud of it; Kisha was sexually conservative and straight. But Ashley's doggy ways turned to dogged determination as she watched one after another of her surefire moves fail to get her into Kisha's pants. Finally, after weeks of failed seduction, Ashley's determination paid off. Kisha's ambivalence gave way to curiosity, her curiosity gave way to desire, and ultimately desire blossomed into love. ($8 online; $10 door) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (12 - 8pm) The Gay Erotic Art Fair will kick off on January 23 with a ticketed preview reception from 7 to 9pm. The fair continues Saturday from 12 - 8pm and Sunday from 12 to 5pm. Invited artists represent a full range of creative talent with a focus on “erotic” creativity. Artists include photographers, sketch artists, painters and sculptors. Event Website

(Town Hall, 123 West 43rd, New York, NY 10036) (8pm) An evening of hypnotic music and graceful dancing. In this day of television’s popular dance competitions, you don’t find young Fred Astaires and Ginger Rogers in the movies, but in elite dance competitions for ballroom dancing. Many of these contestants including Delyan Terziev and Boriana Deltcheva (who were featured on Dancing with the Stars with Sheryl Crow), Gherman Mustuc and Iveta Lukosiute (the reigning World Professional Ten Dance Champions), Matt and Karen Hauer (National Mambo Champions), Tony Scheppler and Erin Bomboy (the reigning North American Smooth champions who have been appeared in Enchanted and Mona Lisa Smile) and Mayo Alanen and Lisa Vogel (seen on PBS’s America’s Ballroom Challenge and current Rising Star Smooth Champions) will perform to the rhythms of the waltz, foxtrot, cha-cha, rumba and more. ($50 & $45) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM) Meet doctors, lawyers, teachers, business execs, and other career-minded men at this fun, structured singles mixer. After meeting most of the guys in the room, write a list of the men you want to date, and a computer tells you your mutual matches. Date Bait has been running gay singles events for 12 years. ($20) (212-971-1084) [email protected] Event Website

(7pm – 12 Midnight) One of New York City’s largest LGBT dinner dances, Winter Pride has become one of the most important celebratory events of the year. To benefit Queens Pride festivities. Event Website

(Time Warner Center, 60th & Broadway, New York, NY 10023) (8:30pm) A Brazilian opera star and Tony Award–winning leading man of the tremendously popular Broadway revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific, Mr. Szot brings his charming charisma and rich, emotive baritone to this auspicious solo performance. Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (9pm) It’s hard to believe that 25 years ago The Saint, Paradise Garage, and Studio 54 were in existence when the Center Dance (aka Dance:208) started. The Center Dance was a big success right from the start. And out of the dance, came the Garden Party, the Pride Parade Center Float, and the Pier Dance! From its initial famed Halloween, Gay Prom and Classics dance parties, to the Kay Sister & Lady Bunny’s Prom, to Paradise Garage, Studio 54 tributes and the Fur B.all; from locating at the Center to FIT to Little West 12th Street and back to the Center, the Dance has continued to thrive. Everyone from Frankie Knuckles, Coco Lachine, Larry Glick, Hedda Lettuce, DJ Susan Morabito, Cheer NY, DJ Louis Morhaim, DJ Johnny Dynell, the Imperial Court, Willi Ninja, the Gay Men’s Chorus, DJ Michael Fierman, DJ Robbie Leslie, DJ Ted Snowdon, DJ Karin Ward, and Rollerena has spun, volunteered, or hosted, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars, and having hundreds of volunteers and thousands of customers. ($10 at the door; $8 online) Event Website

(Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020) Chinese New Year Splendor is the most inspiring celebration of traditional Chinese culture as it was meant to be -- a study in grace, fluidity, balance, and inner strength. A program of nearly twenty masterful dances and songs brings Asia's celebrated past to life on stage. ($48 - $128) Event Website

(Historical Thatched Cottage, 445 East Main St, Centerport, NY 11721) (6:30pm) Numerous awards presented to local orgs, events and individuals as voted by the Long Island LGBT Community. Special Celebration of Outlook Magazine's 10 Year Anniversary. Cocktail Hour with performance by LI Pride Chorus / Gourmet Buffet Dinner / Five Hour Open Bar / DJ - Dancing. Mistress of Ceremonies: Priscilla Pride. ($55) Event Website

(Meets at 526 West 26th St at 10th Ave) (1pm) Visit 8 exhibits of cutting-edge painting, sculpture, electronic media & photography, including works by Lesbian artists Dona Nelson and Chitra Ganesh, led by a gay studies professor. ($20) (212-946-1548) Event Website

(la.venue, 608 West 28th St, New York, NY 10001) (6 pm) Coinciding with the New York International Gift Fair’s opening weekend, this revue is an all out gambling, food, drink, music and dancing indulgence. Mingle, network and play to win a stunning array of prizes -- everything you can imagine from trinkets to trips. Event Website

(Merkin Concert Hall, 129 West 67th Street, New York, NY 10023) (8pm) Featuring the talents of Tony Award-Winner William Finn. Event Website

(VIA Phone) (7pm) Learn the do's and don'ts of dating in this open discussion based on your experience.You must pre-register at www.nyclavenderlounge.com/commandments.htm for details on call in number. If you have any interest in meeting lesbians do not miss this fun and informative call. Sponsored by NYC Lavender Lounge Events. (Free) (212-989-8549) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6pm) Armed with beauty, wit, the wardrobe of Audrey Hepburn, and expert kickboxing skills, the protagonist of "The Kiss Murder" is a computer technician by day and the ultraglamorous transvestite hostess of Istanbul's most notorious club by night. You're invited to meet Somer in conversation with Earl Starkey, whom Conde Nast Traveler has named "Top Travel Specialist for Turkey" every year since 2001. (Nonmembers, $10. OP Members, just $5.) Event Website

ONE NIGHT. 2,500 NEW YORKERS. LET'S MAKE IT COUNT. The NYC Department of Homeless Services will be conducting the Homeless Outreach Population Estimate (HOPE) and thousands of volunteers are needed to canvass parks, subways, and other public spaces to count the number of people living unsheltered in the city. Just one night of your time will help us collect vital information that is used by outreach teams to help homeless people leave the streets for a better life. Training provided. Event Website

(Rainbow Room, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112) Unlike any other evening in New York, Manhattan Theatre Club’s “An Intimate Night” is a dazzling musical event that brings you up close to Broadway’s most glittering stars. Event Website

(Public Assembly, 70 N. 6th St., Brooklyn, NY 11211) (10 PM) Superstars of New York burlesque have been scouring the Top-40 charts, preparing world-premiere acts to the #1 songs from the day they were born. Travel back in a burlesque-powered time-machine with Nasty Canasta, Dirty Martini, Naughtia Nice, Weirdee Girl and more.  Then join these beauties on a quick jaunt forward to catch up with each of them at age 16.  ($10) [email protected] Event Website

(Albany, NY) Join Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY), The Long Island GLBT Community Center (The Center) and Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE-LI) for a day in Albany bringing the issues and concerns of Long Island’s GLBT Community to our State Assembly members, our State Senators and The Governor’s office. Event Website

(Joyce Theater, 175 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011) The Joyce commissioned work gives insight to contemporary China by contrasting the modern metropolitan population represented by the dancers, with the traditional agrarian society represented by the folk musicians from the Grasslands of Inner Mongolia. Event Website

(Wings Theater, 154 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014) (8 PM) ULTERIOR MOTIVES will showcase seven short plays about less-than-straightforward characters, written and produced by members of the Village Playwrights, New York’s Lesbian and Gay playwrights collective. ($10) (718-381-1487) [email protected] Event Website

(MCCNY, 446 West 36th St, New York, NY 10018) (7pm) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6pm) Black Tale is a contemporary hip-hop fairytale centered on the Greek myth of Persephone. Black Tale enchants with poetry, movement, elements of Negro spirituals, mythology, classic parables, and nursery rhymes; transporting you to the not so far away land of Bed-Stuy "Do or Die" Brooklyn. Starring in this magnificent staged reading is Ms. Rae Dawn Chong. Chong is best known for appearing in the films Quest for Fire, The Color Purple, Choose Me, Beat Street, Commando, Soul Man and Far Out Man. Reception 6pm with a pre-show performance by Rebel Starr, the neo quantum retro hip hop duo. ($10) Event Website

(Rubin Museum of Art, 150 West 17th St, New York, NY 10012) (6:30pm) In addition to mingling at the bar, you are welcome to visit the galleries of the museum or check out one of the performances that evening. The performances have additional charges. The LGBT Alumni will be meeting in the lounge, which is on the ground floor to the left just after you enter the museum. FFR/Princeton BTGALA is again hosting and Ivy League, Seven Sisters, NYU Stanford, Duke, UVA, Georgetown and Northwestern Alumni, faculty, staff students and friends are invited. (Free) Event Website

(New Dance Group, 305 W. 36th St, At Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018) (8:00 PM) Ryan Beck kicks off the 2009 Teacher Performance Series with unFOLDed, lives of quiet desperation. In tribute to our teachers and their devotion to arts education, we are pleased to offer an opportunity to bring their unique talent to the stage in our Teacher Performance Series. UnFOLDed is a new dance show set entirely to the music of Ben Folds and choreographed by Ryan Daniel Beck. ($12-18) (2129041990) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (6:00pm) Circle of Voices Inc.-Non Profit Organization Empowerment Group for LGBT Womyn of African Descent & Womyn of Color. Discuss how you can make your life better in 2009. Be prepared with your wish list. Get ready to share and work on a plan with some help from us! Circle of Voices Inc.-Non Profit Organization Empowerment Group for LGBT Womyn of African Descent & Womyn of Color ($6) (718-975-0141) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8pm) Dynamic dating/social mixer. Connect with creative, right brained, artistic souls in brief, one on one private "mini dates" & in group conversations based on topics, interests etc. Also creative interactive exercises & ice-breaker. Mingle during free refreshment break. Find your most compatible matches. No pressure. Structured, Don't miss this one of a kind outrageusly fun & exciting evening. ($21) (212-989-8549) [email protected] Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8pm) The world's largest Lesbian Archives celebrates its 35th anniversary. This event will serve both to celebrate the outstanding achievements of this major lesbian historical center to date, and to announce the launching of an endowment fund campaign so that the financial future of the Archives will be secured. Expect an evening of reminiscences, toasts and performances. Mistress of ceremony: the one and only Joan Nestle. ($15/or donation) Event Website

(LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th St, New York, NY 10011) (8:00 PM - 10:00 PM) At this Speed-Dating event, meet lots of HIV+ guys for a series of 3-minute dates. Tell us which men you want a second date with, and minutes later you find out your matches. This is a great opportunity to meet guys for time-efficient face-to-face contact. It’s a lot of fun and could lead to meeting someone special! ($20) (212-971-1084) [email protected] Event Website